What is the meeting etiquette in China? Do they shake hands?
When meeting Chinese businesspeople, foreigners should display sincerity and respect. Handshaking etiquette, imported from the West, is generally the accepted form of salutation. But Chinese tend to shake hands very lightly and a handshake can last as long as ten seconds.
Besides shaking hands, is there any other etiquette for greeting in China?
While shaking hands is now the standard form of greeting, traditional etiquette calls for making a fist with the left hand, covering it with the right palm, and shaking the hands up and down. Some Chinese still do this, especially with close friends. It is also a formal way of saying thank you and a sign of reverence.
Is it necessary to exchange business cards when meeting in China? How to present the business cards?
Yes. The handshake is always followed by a ritualistic exchange of business cards. Foreigners should always carry many business cards, preferably with English text on one side and Chinese on the other. Seek advice on the choice of characters for your name and company, as some characters have better meanings than others. The proper procedure for exchanging business cards is to give and receive cards with both hands, holding the card corners between thumb and forefinger. When receiving a card, take a few moments to study the card and what it says, even if it is only printed in Chinese. The name card represents the person who presents it, and it should be given respect accordingly.
Is it advisable to present some letters of introduction in the greeting and meeting?
Presenting letters of introduction from well known business leaders, overseas Chinese, or former government officials who have dealt with China is an excellent way of showing both that you are a person of high standing and that you mean business. Chinese are very concerned about social standing, and anything that you can do to enhance their regard for you is a plus. But be careful not to appear arrogant or haughty, as Confucian morality condemns such behavior.
